Del Mar, CA (September 5, 2000) - The Food Consulting Company of Del Mar, California is offering clients a free monthly update on government action affecting food labels beginning November 3, 2000. Updates will be provided via email on the first Friday of each month.

Clients have been invited to receive the free service by registering at intouch@foodlabels.com. There is no deadline for signing up. Food packaging companies and food processors that are not currently clients can request the service by sending an email to subscribe@foodlabels.com.

The Food Consulting Company is offering the service now, said Karen Duester, company president, “because of increased client inquiries about Nutrition Facts changes resulting from the National Academy of Science periodic release of Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) reports.” DRIs are estimates of nutrient needs and replace the former Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs). RDAs are the basis for Daily Values and % Daily Values on Nutrition Facts panels.

The US Food and Drug Administration has stated they will not make changes in the Daily Values requirements (regulations) until four more DRI reports are released. This is expected to be sometime in 2001 or 2002.

“This sounds like a long way off,” Duester said. “But companies need to stay in touch with FDA progress in requiring label changes because they will be printing new label stocks and will want to avoid the expense of wasted inventory. Also, the DRI reports may provide new opportunities to position food products as healthy.” Duester believes the email updates will be one of the simplest ways to stay informed on FDA action.

The Food Consulting Company offers a full range of food labeling services including ingredient statements, health claims, label content/placements, shelf life evaluations and final label review. The company can be reached through the web site at www.foodlabels.com or by calling 800-793-2844.


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© Food Consulting Company, 2000.